Looking for a sweet and tropical treat to indulge your taste buds? Look no further than this delightful recipe for Hawaiian Brittle. The perfect blend of crunchy, nutty goodness with a hint of fruity flavors, this homemade brittle will transport you to the sunny shores of Hawaii with every bite. Whether you’re craving a snack for yourself or a homemade gift for someone special, this recipe is sure to impress. So grab your apron and get ready to whip up a batch of this irresistible Hawaiian Brittle.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup macadamia nuts
– 1 cup almonds
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1 cup dried pineapple chunks
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Your Workspace:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. Make sure all your ingredients are measured and ready to go before you start cooking as this recipe moves quickly.
2. **Toast the Nuts and Coconut:** In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat, toast the macadamia nuts, almonds, and shredded coconut until lightly golden and fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the toasted nuts and coconut to a bowl and set aside.
3. **Cook the Sugar Syrup:** In the same skillet, combine the sugar, butter, water, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved. Once the mixture starts bubbling, insert a candy thermometer and allow it to cook until it reaches 295°F (hard crack stage). This should take about 10-12 minutes.
4. **Add Vanilla and Fruits:** Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Quickly add the dried pineapple chunks, toasted nuts, and coconut to the skillet, stirring to coat them evenly in the sugar syrup.
5. **Spread the Mixture:** Working quickly, pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Using a spatula, spread it out into an even layer, ensuring all the nuts and fruits are evenly distributed.
6. **Allow to Cool and Harden:** Let the Hawaiian Brittle cool at room temperature until hardened, about 30-45 minutes. Once completely cooled, break the brittle into pieces using your hands or a knife.
7. **Enjoy Your Tropical Treat:** Your homemade Hawaiian Brittle is now ready to be enjoyed! Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. This brittle also makes a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.
Indulge in the sweet and crunchy goodness of this Hawaiian Brittle that captures the essence of the tropics in every bite. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, this delightful treat is sure to brighten your day and satisfy your cravings for something both nutty and sweet. So why wait? Whip up a batch today and transport your taste buds to a sunny Hawaiian paradise!
